Snappy Glazed Meatballs
Juicy meatballs glazed with a sweet and tangy chili-jelly sauce, perfect for parties or family dinners, offering a delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, bread crumbs, salt, and beaten egg; mix well.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- In a skillet, brown the meatballs, turning occasionally; then drain.
- In a small bowl, combine chili sauce and grape jelly.
- Pour the sauce over the cooked meatballs and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Serve warm in a chafing dish or electric frypan.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the meat mixture. If you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey can be substituted for ground beef. For a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of grape jelly, or use a homemade barbecue sauce instead of chili sauce. This recipe is perfect for gatherings and can be made ahead of time.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these snappy glazed meatballs as an appetizer at your next party, or alongside a fresh salad for a main course. They pair beautifully with Becky'S Baked Beans for a hearty meal or can be served over rice or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete dinner, consider serving with steamed vegetables or garlic bread.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to keep them moist, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. They can also be frozen for up to three months; just thaw and reheat before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Snappy Glazed Meatballs contains roughly 65 calories, with 2g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance. Shape them and store them uncooked in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours or freeze them for longer storage. When ready to cook, simply brown and add the sauce as directed.
What can I substitute for grape jelly?
If you don't have grape jelly, you can use other fruit preserves like apricot or raspberry, or even a barbecue sauce for a different flavor profile. Adjust the sweetness to your preference by adding a bit of sugar if necessary.
How do I make these meatballs spicier?
To add some heat, mix in crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture. You can also use a spicy chili sauce instead of the regular one for a more intense flavor. Adjust according to your spice tolerance.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).